Fertility

Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of trying to conceive without using contraceptives [1]. For women over 35, a couple should see a doctor after trying to conceive for six months [2]. Many different factors influence a couple’s ability to conceive, including natural, biological processes in both the male and female body. But lifestyle factors – such as a high body mass index, stress, smoking, caffeine and alcohol intake as well as exposure to environmental pollutants – also play a part [3].

We are world market leader in fertility treatments and the only company to offer recombinant versions of the three natural hormones needed to treat infertility as well as a complete and clinically proven portfolio of fertility treatment at every stage of the reproductive cycle. In this way, we want to help couples to realize their dream of having a baby. Building on our fertility expertise that goes back to 1906 we continuously generated fertility innovation. 20 years ago, we were able to bring to market the world’s first recombinant human product to treat infertility. And our dedication to research and development has never stopped. The treatment journey is challenging for patients, and we aim to make this journey as easy as possible for them.

We drive innovation, and continuous scientific progress is the basis to improve ART outcomes for patients. In that sense, the Medical Innovation Program (MIP), an initiative driven by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is a program directed at scientists around the globe supporting early-stage innovation in the field of human reproduction. The goal of MIP is to translate biomedical science into clinical applications for the benefit of patients by providing funding and support throughout the translation process.

Today, the fertility market is changing fast, and the importance of technologies become more and more evident. In 2014, we entered the field of fertility technologies. We want to support couples on their fertility journey in every way we can. As the steps taken in the laboratory play a critical role in increasing treatment success rates, innovative technologies can make a real difference. With our engagement in supporting innovation in technologies, we aim to improve standardization, automation and excellence in assisted reproductive treatment (ART).

Together with Genea Fertility, an Australian company being active worldwide, we have opened the First Centre of Excellence for Fertility, a state-of-the-art training facility to support ART professionals with a range of ongoing educational opportunities. 

For healthcare professionals: Please find further information on our treatments, devices and technologies on our website www.fertility.com.

[1] Zegers-Hochschild, F. et al., The International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technology (ICMART) and the World Health Organization (WHO) Revised Glossary on ART Terminology, 2009. Hum Reprod 2009 24 (11):2683-2687 

[2] American Society for Reproductive Medicine. 2012. Age and Fertility – A guide for patients. Available from: https://www.reproductivefacts.org/globalassets/rf/news-and-publications/bookletsfact-sheets/english-fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/AgeandFertility.pdf. Last access February 2016.

[3] NICE. Fertility problems: assessment and treatment. Clinical guideline. Published: 20 February 2013. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg156/resources/fertility-problems-assessment-and-treatment-35109634660549